Himara Castle, Devoll Travel Guide

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Explore Himara Castle: A historic Albanian fortress with stunning Ionian Sea views and ancient ruins.

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Himara Castle

Perched high above the Ionian Sea, Himara Castle is a historic fortress with roots stretching back 3,500 years. Explore its ancient walls, churches, and stunning panoramic views of the Albanian Riviera.

A brief summary to Himara Castle

4P8J+RR3, Himara Castle, SH8, Himarë, AL
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Himara Castle.

Wear comfortable shoes, as the path to the castle is steep and uneven.
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best light for photography.
Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities within the castle grounds.
Consider exploring the nearby Himara Old Town for local dining options.

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Explore Himara Castle on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Himara Castle, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From the center of modern Himara, follow the main road (SH8) north for approximately 2.5 kilometers uphill. The walk is steep and takes around 45 minutes. Look for signs directing you to Himara Castle or Himara Fshat (Old Himara). The path leads directly to the castle entrance.
Car

From Himara, follow SH8 north. The drive to Himara Castle takes less than 10 minutes. There is a small, free parking lot available near the entrance to the old town, but it can be crowded during the summer. Parking is typically 800 ALL near the beach.
Taxi

Taxis are available in Himara. Negotiate a fare to Himara Castle from the town center. The ride is short, but confirm the price before starting. Expect to pay around 50-70 euros from Kolonja to Himara.

Discover more about Himara Castle

Himara Castle, also known as Kastro e Himarës or Babakus, is the historic old town of Himara, located approximately 2.5 kilometers north of the modern town center. The castle's origins trace back to ancient times, with evidence suggesting settlement by the Greek tribe of the Chaonians as early as the 8th century BC. Roman author Pliny mentioned the castle in the 1st century AD, noting its strategic coastal location.Throughout its history, Himara Castle has served as a vital stronghold, witnessing centuries of battles, occupations, and cultural shifts. The castle became the center of the Bishophric of Himara in the 8th century. Various civilizations, including Byzantines and Ottomans, have influenced its architecture, creating a blend of styles. The castle was inhabited until the 16th century when the population began to move towards the coast.Today, visitors can explore the partially ruined yet inhabited houses within the castle walls, wandering through a network of small cobbled streets. Several churches, including the Church of Saints Sergius and Bacchus and the Church of St. Mary Kasopitra, offer glimpses into the region's religious history. The castle's elevated position, approximately 240 meters above sea level, provides breathtaking panoramic views of the Ionian Sea, Livadhi Beach, and the surrounding canyons and mountains.